oksalaattihapon

Oksalaattihappo, also known as oxalic acid, is an organic compound with the formula C2H2O4. It is a dicarboxylic acid, meaning it contains two carboxyl groups. In its pure form, it is a white crystalline solid. It is found naturally in many plants, such as spinach, rhubarb, and sorrel, and is also produced industrially.

Oxalic acid is a relatively strong acid. It is a reducing agent and can be used as a cleaning agent, particularly for rust stains and in wood bleaching. In the laboratory, it is often used as a titrant in redox titrations. Its salts are called oxalates. Some oxalates, such as calcium oxalate, are insoluble in water.

In biological systems, oxalic acid can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, as it can bind to calcium and form insoluble crystals, potentially leading to kidney stones. It can also interfere with the absorption of minerals. However, it is also a metabolic intermediate in some organisms. The human body can metabolize small amounts of oxalic acid, but excessive intake can overwhelm these processes. Handling oxalic acid requires caution due to its corrosive nature.